sponsor sponsor /ˈspɑːnsɝ/

noun

1. () Someone who supports or champions something  ( patron , supporter , sponsor )
   someone who supports or champions something
     The generous sponsor funded the educational expenses of underprivileged children.
   The generous sponsor funded the educational expenses of underprivileged children.
   
2. An advocate who presents a person (as for an award or a degree or an introduction etc.)  ( presenter [British] , sponsor )
   an advocate who presents a person (as for an award or a degree or an introduction etc.)
   

verb

1. () Assume sponsorship of  ( patronise , patronize , sponsor )
   assume sponsorship of
   
2. () Assume responsibility for or leadership of  ( sponsor )
   assume responsibility for or leadership of
    The senator announced that he would sponsor the health care plan
   The senator announced that he would sponsor the health care plan
   
3. Do one's shopping at; do business with; be a customer or client of  ( buy at , patronise [British] , sponsor , frequent , patronize , shop , shop at )
   do one's shopping at; do business with; be a customer or client of